Caleb University Economists Predict Tougher Economic Realities Ahead Of 2027 Elections, Demand Urgent Strategic Reforms

Economists and policy experts at Caleb University have projected tougher economic conditions for Nigeria ahead of the 2027 general elections, warning that rising political activities, global geopolitical tensions and persistent inflation could further strain businesses and households if urgent reforms are not sustained.

The warning emerged at a high-level symposium organised by the University’s Centre for Political Issues and Economic Thoughts with the theme: “Nigeria’s Economic Outlook in a Pre-Election Year: Navigating Domestic Trends and Global Geopolitical Shocks.”

The symposium dissected Nigeria’s economic realities in the crucial pre-election year, highlighting the fragile nature of current economic gains despite moderate improvements in inflation figures and GDP projections.

Director of the Centre, Dr. Samuel Idowu, said Nigeria’s pre-election years have historically been characterised by aggressive political spending, heightened policy uncertainty and economic volatility capable of reversing hard-earned gains.

“In Nigeria’s political system, the pre-election year witnesses intense activities ranging from party primaries and campaigns to strategic political alignments and litigations. These activities naturally impact public spending patterns and economic stability,” he stated.

One of the lead speakers, Dr. Raymond Aleghona, noted that although inflation moderated to about 15 per cent in March 2026, with April figures ending at 15.38 per cent, the cost of living remains unbearably high for millions of Nigerians.

He described the projected GDP growth rates of 3.9 per cent in 2025 and 4.1 per cent in 2026 as modest and vulnerable to both domestic and international shocks.